You don’t know what you’ve got until it’s gone. That famous phrase doesn’t ring any more true than when you’ve lost a functioning toilet! A clogged toilet can be one of the most alarming predicaments that can often have homeowners panicking. The simple answer to how to unclog a toilet is to plunge it but what if you don’t have a plunger?
Don’t worry, we’ve got your back with 6 ways for you to unclog your toilet and get back to normalcy!
Solution 1: Using a plunger
Plungers are the go-to solution for clogged toilets around the world, and there are a surprising number of different types for your unclogging needs. The most common one is a cup plunger (think your basic plunger with the domed end).
The best plunger however, is a flange plunger, which features the dome/cup of a normal plunger but with a sleeve-like extension at the bottom. This extension works to fit completely over the hole of your toilet for a complete seal.
So now we ask ourselves how to unclog a toilet with a plunger. Here’s how to do it.
1. Make sure the toilet is filled with water
To unclog the toilet, there needs to be standing water inside the bowl, enough to completely cover the head of the plunger.
2. Insert the plunger
Insert the plunger so that it completely covers the hole of the toilet. For maximum plunging force, insert the plunger at an angle to ensure a good seal. Inserting it straight down traps a lot of air within the cup which actually reduces the plunging force.
3. Work the plunger
Once inserted, it’s time to use your muscles and to work the plunger. Grip the plunger and push down on the it forcefully, followed by pulling the plunger up – without breaking the seal around the hole. Repeat this motion a few times then pull the plunger out to break the seal after the last thrust.
This motion works to create a plunging force that loosens and breaks up the clog. The key is to always make sure that you have a proper seal which you can do by always applying some downward force on the plunger.
Plunge with the same up and down motion until the clog has been loosened and the bowl is empty.
4. Flush the toilet
Once the clog is cleared, flush the toilet. If it flushes normally, you’re all done! If it doesn’t, you can stop any chance of overflow by pushing the flapper (a rubber stopper located in the tank of your toilet) over its hole. Once the flow is stopped, plunge the toilet again.
But what if plunging doesn’t work or you don’t own a plunger? How do you go about unclogging a toilet without a plunger? Here are 5 other plunge-free methods!
Solution 2: Dish soap
Dish soap isn’t just limited to cleaning your dishes – it can also help unclog your toilet. How? The lubricating liquid of dish soap can help loosen the clog and encourage it to slide down the pipe. To do so, pour a substantial amount of liquid dish soap into the toilet bowl, roughly half a cup. Let it sit for about 20 minutes, which gives it ample time to lubricate both the clog and the pipe.
Solution 3: Hot water
Pouring hot water can help both break down debris and push it down the pipe. Fill a bucket with hot water and pour it into the bowl from waist level. The heat can help loosen the debris and the force and impact of the pouring water can give it the necessary push to go down. Just be sure not to use boiling water as this can crack and damage the porcelain of your toilet.
Solution 4: DIY drain snake
For severe blockages that can’t be removed with a plunger, you will need a drain snake. Drain or plumbing snakes are slender, flexible tools which dislodge clogs. They are readily available at most hardware stores but if you don’t have time to go out and get one, you can make your own with a wire coat hanger. Unravel it then use it to prod and poke the clog until it breaks down and is removed.
Solution 5: Baking soda and vinegar
The tried and true combination of baking soda and vinegar can help you remove a bad clog from your toilet. Make the solution by mixing one cup baking soda with two cups of vinegar and then pouring it into your toilet. Allow it to fizz and break down the clog for 20-30 mins. How to unclog your toilet fast? Follow up the solution with hot water (see Solution 2) to get it out quick!
Solution 6: Call a plumber
When all else fails, calling a plumber to help you out can get your toilet back to normal. You might be paying for the service, but there really is no quicker and faster way to get your toilet unblocked. Make sure the tradesman you call is reliable and won’t overcharge you for the service!
How to unclog a toilet a toilet made simple and easy
These helpful solutions will have your toilet unclogged in no time! And with 6 methods up your sleeve, you’ll have multiple options to choose from if one doesn’t work.
We’ve helped you with how to unclog a toilet but do you want more awesome bathroom tips? Check out the rest of our articles! And if you’re looking for a brand new toilet for your bathroom, we’ve got you covered as well. Check out our range at MYHOMEWARE for toilets of all shapes and sizes, at prices that you can afford. Find the perfect throne for your bathroom now!
